Georgian MP with pro-Russian sentiments proposes new, conflict-related format with China engagement

Fridon Injia, a member of the European Socialists opposition party, on Wednesday proposed establishing a parallel dialogue format for discussions with China, distinct from the ongoing Geneva discussions that has been focused on Georgia’s conflict issues with Russia since the 2008 conflict. 

In a committee hearing, Injia sought the opinion of Foreign Minister candidate Ilia Darchiashvili on this initiative. However, Darchiashvili refrained from giving a direct response, emphasizing the importance of maintaining the current Geneva format while also aiming to deepen strategic ties with China, which the countries signed last year.

Injia pointed out the lack of progress in the Geneva discussions over the past 15 years regarding de-occupation issues and suggested that given China’s new status as a strategic partner of Georgia and its support for territorial integrity, a separate dialogue format led by China could be beneficial. Injia argued that involving China in strategic projects could enhance its interest in Georgia, allowing Tbilisi to leverage between the two formats.

In addition, Injia advocated for direct negotiations between Georgia and Russia without intermediaries. Darchiashvili countered Injia’s proposal by highlighting the inclusivity of the Geneva format, which involves the United States, the European Union, OSCE, and the United Nations, besides Russia. He stressed the need to address humanitarian issues within this framework and underscored the priority of elevating relations with China to a strategic level, which aligns with Georgia’s geographical positioning.

Darchiashvili emphasized the importance of strengthening ties with China for the success of the Middle Corridor initiative and reiterated China’s support for Georgia’s territorial integrity and sovereignty. The Geneva negotiations were established post the 2008 war between Georgia and Russia, based on the ceasefire agreement of August 12, 2008. The discussions include representatives from Georgia, Russia, the USA, as well as co-chairs from the OSCE, the European Union, and the United Nations, with individuals from the occupied regions of Abkhazia and Tskhinvali also participating.